Race day shaping up as a bloomin' success

DEVONPORT Cup organisers are a day ahead of schedule preparing for the event as Tapeta Park, Spreyton begins to swarm with activity.

Organisers on Friday worked as marquees were installed and supplies delivered ahead of Wednesday's cup.

The park's roses are blooming in time for race day.

Devonport Racing Club chairman Barry Milton said its grass was the greenest he'd seen it in eight years as a committee member.

Rain in recent months had left the race course looking its best in years, he said.

"The season's been kind to us and the Tasracing staff have been looking after [the roses] well," he said.

Other flower and shrubs displays around marquees and mounting yard areas will complement the park's roses. Roses are also blooming at its newly built memorial garden, designed to let people associated with the race club dedicate plaques to relatives.

Organisers are hoping for a crowd of 5000 people at least.

Ticket sales have been strong in the lead-up to the event.

Only patrons that have leased private marquee spots can bring alcohol into the park, and alcohol must be brought in by 10am on Wednesday.

People entering through general admission can buy alcohol from vendors at the ground.

Ten corporate marquees and 120 regular-size marquees will be erected before the cup.